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Prim&Proper Douro Red 2024

3 bottles per case

18,00 

Description

Origin & Terroir

Vilabela is located on an east-facing slope, along the banks of the Varosa River, a tributary of the Douro. We are in the heart of the Baixo Corgo region, the coolest of the three Douro sub-regions. Our vineyard, planted in schist soil at an altitude of 400 meters, is a terroir that enhances the freshness of the sub-region.

Grape Varieties

Touriga Franca
0 %
Touriga Nacional
0 %
Sourced from Vilabela, the vines are planted on terraces (patamares) with an easterly exposure, in a cool terroir protected from the Douro’s most intense heat.

Tasting Notes

Medium-intensity ruby colour. The nose is expressive, with notes of ripe red and black fruit, such as blackberry and black cherry. It reveals a complex balsamic side, with hints of scrubland, tobacco box, and subtle suggestions of black pepper. On the palate, it is intense, with integrated acidity and a textured tannin structure. The finish is long, persistent, and well-balanced.

Winemaking and Ageing

The ripening cycle is monitored through berry tasting and analysis to determine the ideal harvest date. The grapes, harvested in 20kg crates, are destemmed and fermented in stainless steel vats at a controlled temperature ($26-30$ °C). Extraction is carried out through gentle pumping-over, ensuring a balance between fruit expression and tannin structure. Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional are co-fermented, allowing for better integration of both varieties from the very beginning. Touriga Franca offers ripe fruit and structure, while Touriga Nacional contributes floral elegance and firm acidity. Following malolactic fermentation, the wine is aged for approximately 12 months in used oak barrels, gaining complexity and balance.

Storage

Bottles should be stored horizontally in a cool place (15 ºC) with a relative humidity of approximately 70%. Under ideal conditions, it will evolve positively for a minimum of 15 years.

The Art of Serving & Gastronomy

This wine should be served between 14 and 16 ºC, in wide-bowled glasses. With a profile of fresh fruit and integrated tannins, it is highly gastronomic, pairing perfectly with Mediterranean meat dishes and deep flavours. Its structure makes it an excellent counterpoint to more intense dishes.

Vilabela Wines

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